SHARJAH: Critically acclaimed Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi captivated audiences at the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2024 on Sunday as she introduced her debut novel, Zeba.
The book, which presents a unique take on the superhero genre, follows the journey of a female protagonist in her 30s who is deeply flawed yet capable of heroic feats.
During an engaging conversation with Gulf News Entertainment Editor Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Huma shared insights into her creative process, her thoughts on feminism, and her vision for the future of storytelling.
Huma Qureshi’s ‘Zeba’ at SIBF2024
With Zeba, Huma Qureshi breaks away from traditional superhero narratives, offering readers a protagonist who is both strong and vulnerable. Zeba is a woman who is weary of the world-saving business, yet remains resilient in the face of personal and societal challenges.
“I love the idea of imperfect people doing heroic things,” Huma explained to the audience. “Male characters often get the space to be flawed, but for women, it’s less common. Either they’re put on a pedestal, or they’re cast as the villain or the victim. I wanted Zeba to be real—someone confident yet confused, just like many of us.”
Reflecting on her character’s journey, she continued, “I thought people in their 30s had everything figured out. But as you grow older, you realise life is a work-in-progress irrespective of age.”
Zeba stands out precisely because of her authenticity. “She is far from perfect, yet she is resilient,” said the actress, whose performances in Gangs of Waaseypur, Monica, O My Darling, Maharani, and Dedh Ishqiya have earned her critical acclaim.
Navigating the creative struggle
Huma was also asked by an audience member about the creative struggles she faces in her dual roles as both an actress and a writer. She shared a refreshing perspective on creativity. “They’re both very different, and they’re both very real. Sometimes, you just have to get out of the way of creativity and let it happen to you,” she explained.
“It’s like when a flower blooms. You can’t force it; it will bloom when the time is right.”
This organic approach to creativity helped Huma transition effortlessly between acting and writing. She revealed that during the COVID-19 pandemic, she found herself with ample time and wondered if she should write a script. “But that felt expected, so I thought I’d write a book instead,” she shared, reflecting on how the pandemic opened up new creative possibilities for her.
Feminism through freedom of choice
A major highlight of the discussion was Huma’s thoughts on feminism. She defined her perspective as rooted in the concept of freedom of choice. “True feminism or true humanism is about freedom of choice. The choice could be anything—being an actress, an author, a mother, or flying planes. It’s about living life authentically without following someone else’s definition of boldness.”
Huma’s philosophy of freedom of choice extends to her career, where she has consciously chosen roles that defy the typical Bollywood mould. From playing a Bihari politician in Maharani to portraying a plus-sized woman in Double XL, she has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is expected of her.
“I don’t want to be put in a box. I’m always asking, ‘Is this something I’d like to put out into the world?’” she said, reinforcing her commitment to authenticity in her career choices.
Embracing vulnerability and immigrant experience
While Zeba addresses universal themes, it also explores the immigrant experience, adding layers to the protagonist’s journey. Although Zeba lives in New York, she remains deeply connected to her cultural roots, reflecting the experiences of many readers. Huma, whose own journey from Delhi to Bollywood has shaped her sense of identity, commented, “Is home where your parents come from, or is it the life you build?”
Mental health is another important theme in Zeba, with the character’s emotional struggles portrayed openly. Huma’s debut as an author showcases her ability to tackle complex issues while weaving a compelling narrative. Looking ahead, she hinted at future projects, including the possibility of adapting Zeba into a series or film. “I’d love for Zeba to be a series or film someday. I’m manifesting it already,” she said with a smile, leaving the audience eager for what might come next in the evolution of her superhero character.
In this debut novel, Huma Qureshi not only expands her creative horizons but also encourages readers to reflect on their own paths, choices, and the importance of embracing imperfections. As her journey as an author unfolds, Zeba marks a significant step in her multifaceted career, with much more to come.